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Gippsland East fares well in tight State BudgetA new $7.5 million police station for Bairnsdale and a $1.5 million primary school expansion at Maffra are highlights of the 2003 budget for the Gippsland East electorate. By East Gippsland - 7th May 2003 - Back to News A new $7.5 million police station for Bairnsdale and a $1.5 million primary school expansion at Maffra are highlights of the 2003 budget for the Gippsland East electorate.
Member for Gippsland East, Craig Ingram, said the budget contained many other positive aspects for the electorate in terms of infrastructure development, community safety and environmental management.
"The government has committed to connecting Bairnsdale to the natural gas network as part of a $70 million gas extension through the Rural Infrastructure Development Fund.
"Ambulance services in Omeo and Mallacoota will be expanded and commitment has also been given to replacing the Swift’s Creek police station and residence.
"Irrigation systems will be upgraded in the Gippsland Lakes and Macalister River districts as part of a statewide $52 million program, while weed control on private and public land has also been given major funding.
"Commitments have been given to bushfire suppression and recovery, a package totalling $201 million.
"There is no secret this is a tight budget and I believe our region has again fared well against the large pressures from across the state. "This afternoon’s budget addresses many of the concerns I have presented to government and I will continue working hard to ensure the government delivers on its promises," Mr Ingram concluded.
Source: http://gippsland.com/ Published by: news@gippsland.com
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